Taken in Southern Texas from a blind. This was a life bird for me and I was happy to see both male and female. The black crest often is raised higher being more pronounced, compared to the Tufted Titmouse. I really like the BG here which is more brush and sky... The top back of the bird is not smooth and not a processing error...
DPP, levels, added a few points of black, removed an intersecting branch, sharpening, and NR
I love the painterly feel of this one Ann. It is so pretty and the background compliments the perch and the bird perfectly. Classic inquisitive titmouse head angle as well. I agree a bit more room on the right would be nice.
I agree with more room on the right, and although I would not eliminate the white areas in the BG I would likely tone them down bit. I love the subject, pose, perch. Good one!